Coastal Security Scheme — Current Affairs 2026

Current Affairs Connections

Recent developments and news linked to Coastal Security Scheme.

MHA Allocates Enhanced Funds for Coastal Security Upgrades in Budget 2024-25

February 1, 2024

The Union Budget 2024-25 saw continued emphasis on internal security, with specific allocations earmarked for modernizing coastal security infrastructure. While exact figures for CSS are often subsumed under broader MHA grants, the overall increase in security-related expenditure signals a sustained commitment to upgrading Marine Police capabilities, procuring advanced surveillance equipment, and enhancing training modules. This budgetary support is crucial for the ongoing Phase-III initiatives, focusing on technology integration and maintenance, ensuring the scheme remains responsive to evolving threats. From a UPSC perspective, this highlights the government's strategic priority on securing maritime borders.

UPSC Angle: Discuss the budgetary support for internal security and its impact on CSS. Analyze how financial allocations translate into tangible upgrades in coastal defence capabilities and address long-standing issues like equipment maintenance and manpower training. Connect to the broader theme of 'resource allocation for national security'.

Successful Interception of Drug Smuggling Attempt by Marine Police and ICG off Gujarat Coast

March 15, 2024

In a recent operation, the Gujarat Marine Police, acting on intelligence inputs, successfully coordinated with the Indian Coast Guard to intercept a suspicious vessel attempting to smuggle a large consignment of narcotics off the state's coast. This incident exemplifies the enhanced operational capabilities and improved inter-agency coordination fostered by the Coastal Security Scheme. The Marine Police's local presence and initial response, combined with the ICG's advanced assets, proved critical in thwarting the illicit activity. Such successes validate the investments made under CSS in training, equipment, and intelligence networks.

UPSC Angle: Analyze this incident as a case study for effective inter-agency coordination under CSS. Discuss the roles of Marine Police, ICG, and intelligence agencies. Evaluate the impact of CSS on combating transnational crimes like drug trafficking and its contribution to overall internal security. Connect to 'challenges to internal security through external state and non-state actors'.